Annual Juried Show

Our current exhibit is the Annual Juried Show, featuring the work of artists from every corner of the Commonwealth. This year our Juror and Judge is Carrie Spencer, Curator of Contemporary Art + Education at the Hermitage Museum & Gardens. Out of 200 submissions, 39 artists and 45 pieces were selected for the show. The First Place award is $1,000 and a Solo Show at Arts on Main, Second Place wins $500 and Third Place wins $250. New this year, we have included a People’s Choice Award of $100.

Carrie Spencer is an arts educator and practicing artist living in the Hampton Roads area. She earned a BA in Art Education and a BFA in Studio Art from Old Dominion University and received her MFA in Studio Art from James Madison University. She has spent time teaching in the public school system, college and university setting as well as in museums since 2009. Carrie has been working at the Hermitage Museum since 2013.

Award Selections

Note from the Juror/Judge: “When making the top three prize selections I considered which pieces engaged the viewer. It’s important that an artwork not just be pleasing to look at but also force the viewer to look beyond the surface, ask questions, and spark discussion.”

First Place – Jordan Flower, Middle Bridge, Acrylic, 24″ x 18″ $900

Judge’s Commentary: “The artist clearly demonstrates high quality painting skills but what stands out about this piece is the composition. The composition captures the viewer, drawing them into the scene. The artists’ choice of viewpoint gives the viewer a unique perspective to the scene. The fact that we (the viewers) cannot see beyond the bend in the road, onto the bridge, leaves us wanting more. This composition forces us to ask questions about the scene, further engaging us.

Second Place – James Bouie, Native Son, Colored Pencil, 24″ x 19″ SOLD

Judge’s Commentary: “The artist demonstrates a high level of skill with the chosen medium. What is so interesting about this piece is the realistic quality. The shadows and highlights on the figures hands give a three-dimensional quality as does the face. It’s not clear what the figure is doing which also adds visual interest and engages the viewer by forcing them to ask questions.”

Judge’s Commentary: “The abstracted quality of this piece and complexity of color allows for visual interest. The layers of markings provide depth that cannot be overlooked. The juxtaposition of light hues at the top and darker hues at the bottom is striking and asks for further inspection by the viewer.”

2020 Juried Show

Double click on images to open a new window for a larger view. To purchase any works from the show, please call the gallery (804-824-9464) and we will be happy to securely process your payment. All works are for sale, unless otherwise noted. Purchased works may be picked up after the show ends in June. We are happy to provide a curbside pick-up service. To view a piece in person, please schedule an appointment.